Gemotions

David adjusted his tie for the tenth time. The open house was about to start, and he felt a knot of anxiety tighten in his chest. He hadn't been able to sleep well since the investigator had informed him about the history of the house. The previous owner had been found dead in the master bedroom. Now, every creak of the floorboards, every shadow cast by the setting sun, amplified his unease.

The first couple through the door seemed pleasant enough, but David found himself fidgeting, pointing out trivial features as if desperately trying to distract himself. He kept glancing at the master bedroom door, willing it not to draw their attention. He couldn't help but imagine the faces of the people who knew the victim.

He tried to keep his voice steady as he described the newly renovated kitchen, but his heart was hammering against his ribs. He felt the blood drain from his face as a woman pointed to a stain on the wall and asked what it was. "Water damage," he blurted out, before quickly redirecting the conversation.